If you bring up the topic of clipping your cat’s nails in the company of other cat owners, responses are mixed. Some shudder. Somehow. Some may howl curses in your direction. It is one of the most moving topics in the cat care category. Easy to see why. cats hurry have their nails cut. And they are not shy about expressing their discontent. The wounded among us can attest to that, I’m sure.

However, if the nails have grown too long, the act must be done. Some cat-loving people mark a certain day on the calendar. Others, like me, pray that they just stop growing. A good rule of thumb is this: When kitty’s claws catch on things like furniture, rugs, or meat, it’s time!

If your cat can pull up a rug scattered across the room or adjust the bedspread, she’s probably behind schedule. It will continue to be one of the most complicated procedures in cat care, but we will tread carefully.

Choosing Nail Clippers You can find several types of cat nail clippers at the pet store. I had to experiment with 3 different products until I found a couple that made us both happy. Or as happy as a cat can be to have its nails trimmed. There are people who use nail clippers for humans, but I do not recommend them. Cat nails are different. Too often, human nail clippers shred cat claws. So no one is happy.

First, find a comfortable place to work. On the table, on your lap, whatever your cat decides. For my feline, we sat in a large comfortable chair with her between my side and the arm of the chair. For me it is by restriction. For Furby, it’s more for comfort.

1. Speak in a low, reassuring voice. Grab a paw. Expose the nail by gently pushing the foot pad.

2. You will see a pink area in the middle down. This is the vein or fast. DON’T CUT ON THIS! It will bleed and possibly get infected. Meow! Then, of course, there’s the guilt you’ll feel for days about hurting your friend. The look in your cat’s eyes will kill you.

Slide the mower just down past the Quick and using a soft and strong movement…clip. 3. If the Quick it’s hard to see or if the fur around the nail is white and you can’t see what you’re doing, just cut the hook off. You will feel the hook, believe me.

If you accidentally cut the come to, apply Kwik-Stop powder to the tip of the nail to stop bleeding. Watch to make sure an infection does not develop. This would be a good time to pack…

4. Give praise on your best baby talk! Breathe a sigh of relief.

This is another grooming task that will define your cat. If you can cut only one nail at a time, that’s fine. Eventually, they will all be cut off. It’s not worth forcing the issue.

Sometimes they will tolerate having both legs done in one sitting. Other times, you’ll want a break after a footsie. She to decide. I obey. Some people have the vet perform this maintenance. It’s what works for you. You have my best wishes!